Engine noise
Some individuals express concern that the noise from aircraft engines might exacerbate their tinnitus or potentially damage their ears. However, it’s highly improbable that this noise would cause any harm. In fact, many people find flying to be a respite from their tinnitus due to the background noise provided by the engines.
If you find the engine noise bothersome, consider selecting a seat in front of the wing to minimize its impact. As a last resort, soft earplugs can be used, but it’s important to note that blocking external sounds may temporarily amplify the perception of tinnitus for some individuals. If you use wearable noise generators, utilizing them during the flight may offer relief.
For those who typically wear hearing aids, it’s advisable to keep them in place during the flight, as removing them could lead to increased perception of tinnitus. Additionally, individuals with hearing loss may find that the strain to hear over the engine noise can make their tinnitus more noticeable while onboard the aircraft.
Take off and landing
Aircraft cabins are pressurized to ensure comfort and safety during flight. When a plane ascends, the impact on the ears is minimal as the pressure in the cabin decreases gradually.
Typically, the air in the middle ear is at a relatively high pressure. During ascent, it moves down the Eustachian tube, akin to releasing the neck of a balloon. However, issues with equalizing pressure in the middle ear often arise during descent for landing. At this point, the air in the middle ear is at a lower pressure than that in the cabin.
If the Eustachian tube is blocked, the ears may not “pop,” and pressure equalization cannot occur. Blockage of the Eustachian tube can result from various factors, such as colds, sinus infections, or nasal allergies, which impede airflow through the tube. As a result, lower pressure inside the middle ear causes the eardrum to be sucked inward and stretched, leading to a sensation of muffled or blocked sounds. In some cases, particularly during rapid descent, this can cause ear pain.
Experiencing Eustachian tube blockage during flight may temporarily intensify tinnitus. However, clearing the ears by swallowing, yawning, or other methods to open the Eustachian tube should restore tinnitus to its previous level.
Perforated ear drum and grommets
Individuals with grommets or a perforated eardrum may be concerned about flying.
Grommets, which are tiny ventilation tubes used to address specific ear conditions, and perforations (holes) in the eardrum resulting from infection or injury, surprisingly present fewer issues during the flight compared to having an intact eardrum. This is because changes in pressure can be easily equalised across the eardrum through the hole or tube, eliminating the reliance on the Eustachian tube to function normally. Therefore, flying with grommets or a perforated eardrum typically poses less difficulty in terms of pressure equalisation.
Recent middle-ear surgery
It’s advisable to consult with your ear specialist before making any travel plans, especially if you have concerns about your ears or any related conditions.
If you’ve recently undergone middle ear surgery or are scheduled for such a procedure, it’s crucial to verify whether flying immediately afterward is permitted. For individuals who have undergone eardrum perforation repair (myringoplasty) or stapes surgery for otosclerosis, it’s typically recommended to refrain from air travel for a brief period while the ear heals. This precaution is necessary to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications associated with changes in air pressure during flight.